Case Study: Tyrrells
Tyrrells believes it's important that its customers are aware of where their
food comes from and how farming plays an important role in food production.
The
company offers primary schools in the local area a 'Seed to Chip' programme.
This
is an engaging and practical food education programme that complements Key
Stage
1 and 2 curriculum requirements.
As part of the programme, pupils are tasked with growing their own potatoes.
They then see the fruits of their labour go through the manufacturing process
and
being turned into snacks at Tyrrells Court Farm.
They also learn about design,
marketing and sales during the programme.
After Tyrrells' Marketing Manager has visited each school and the pupils have
planted their potatoes, Tyrrells remains in contact with the school to answer
questions on things like disease control and how often to water the potatoes.
Once
the potatoes are harvested, each school attends a Tyrrells factory tour and
learns about some of the company's environmental sustainability schemes –
including
how reed beds filter waste peel water from the factory.
A total of 602 pupils from 22 schools have been involved in the scheme so far
and some of the schools that have taken part have since created their own
vegetable garden.
The initiative won a gold award at the 2008 Community Partnership Awards:
Education Category
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More Information
FDF has published a booklet called Working in the Community: the food industry in action
(pdf, 1.2Mb) . This publication features a range of company case studies and
Community
Partnership Award winners demonstrating how our members are forging
links
with
their local communities and consumers.
Last reviewed: 13 Oct 2008